Many people are on different types of diet to make them look and feel good. The ultimate goal of any diet regimen is to reduce weight. However, many people experience hair loss while their weight is also reducing. This is becoming a real concern for many people who are embarking on a weight loss journey. The question is, what is the association between weight loss and hair fall? As this condition may be quite serious for some. This may only be temporary as there are ways to prevent it and treatment for severe cases.
How does hair grow?
Hair begins to grow from a root in the bottom of the follicle. The root is basically made of cells which are filled with proteins. The blood vessels in the scalp feed the root which creates more cells and makes the hair grow.
The hair gets pushed up through the skin as it grows, passing an oil gland along the way. The oil gland adds oil to the hair and keeps it shiny and soft. The hair dies by the time it is long enough to poke out through the skin (www.aad.org).
Weight loss and Hair loss
With today’s increase of consciousness about looks and physique, there also comes some side effects that may also affect the way we look. Many people who are on weight reducing methods complain of having hair fall as well.
Lack of proteins, iron and other dietary supplements in the human body can cause hair loss. Inadequate proteins. Inadequate amount of proteins from the diet and the ones stored in the body can make hair in the body
People who lose weight often restrict their calorie consumption. For proper functioning of the body, it is important that we receive the necessary nutrients for ideal operations. Lack of optimum calorie intake leads to deficiencies in the body system. Just like our body needs food, similarly, our hair also requires intake of nutrients for their healthy growth.
The loss of hair after weight loss is usually associated with a condition called Telogen effluvium (www.billingsgazette.com). Telogen effluvium is the cause of hair loss in people who are losing weight at a fairly rapid pace. Weight loss is beneficial for many people, especially those who are overweight or obese. However, rapid weight loss is not right. The nutrients related to hair loss are protein, iron, biotin, zinc, essential fatty acids, and vitamin B12.
Hair loss from a sudden decline in body weight is only temporary. There are several ways to resume healthy hair growth. Hair fall boils down to nutrients. Therefore, if you are planning to lose a lot of weight and want to avoid or minimize hair loss, it is recommended to keep tabs on how much protein you are getting. It is also wise to try to get some zinc in the diet. Zinc is one of the minerals needed for hair growth.
If your hair fall is persisting, it advisable to try to get some zinc in your diet. Naturally, you can get zinc by eating certain food groups, such as vegetables, fruits, and meat. There are also zinc supplements available to be totally sure you are getting the right amount.
Iron is also a micronutrient related to hair loss. Low iron levels in the body are associated with hair loss. People with hair loss are recommended to take supplements in the form of ferrous fumarate.
In addition to these, the body also needs essential fatty acids for the healthy cellular function and the growth of healthy hair. People who are on a diet should include foods rich in essential fatty acids, such as fish, in their meals.
Tips to avoid hair loss while reducing weight
Lack of enough proteins, iron, and other dietary supplements in the human body can cause hair loss. That is a fact! As proteins are one of the main components of hair, it is highly recommended to have an intake of ample proteins, such as red meat, fish, and beans. Proteins help in structuring hair follicles and supplement a healthy diet. Also make sure you check out this DHT blocker shampoo.
Eggs, spinach, citrus fruits, nuts, carrots, avocado, and whole grains must also be incorporated in the diet. It is also advisable to ensure consumption of plentiful calories, which are vital for the proper functioning of the body system. It is essential to confine calories for weight loss but excessive restriction results in hair loss as lack of nutrition do not supplement hair growth.
Vitamins C, A, and E, iron, and zinc are also needed to contribute to hair growth.
Hair loss is not a problem anymore, in contrast to what many people think and feel. Remember that the human body finds it difficult to cope with sudden body changes. It takes time to adapt to these changes. Proper diet and a healthy lifestyle are always effective and will always lead to a wonderful life.
